What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen anytime and are a common problem for households. They can be uncomfortable dirty, inconvenient, and messy, and require immediate attention. However, you don’t always require the plumber right away. In this blog we’ll walk you through a few easy steps to clear your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved with the use of simple tools like plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we get started we must have these tools handy:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Hook for the Wire Coat or Pipe Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Close the supply of water valve.
The first thing you should do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to shut off the water supply valve on the toilet. This step ensures that no water will enter the tank while you work on unclogging it. The valve is typically found near the bottom of the tank, on the other side.
Step 2: Guard yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Your hands must be protected from potential bacteria or germs present in your toilet with rubber gloves prior to making use of any tool to clear the toilet.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most efficient tool for getting rid of blocked toilets. Begin by pressing down upon the plunger until all air is released, then press firmly over the hole in your toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge quickly up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction generated through plunging back and forth will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled movement.
- Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains, if they are near to stop the pressure of air from escape as you plunge.
Step 4: Test baking soda and vinegar mixture.
If plunging doesn’t work you can try this other method to pour half a mug of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for around 15 minutes. It will fizz a bit before it slows down you can pour hot water down (not boiling) to eliminate the obstruction.
Step 5: Use a coat hanger that is wire or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed and you are in need of a solution, it’s time to try a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until are left with a thin and long wire that has an angled hook at one end. You can also use it as a plumbing snake which was specifically designed for clearing drain clogs. Put the tool in the drain hole in your toilet and then twist, turn, push and pull till you experience resistance. that’s where the blockage usually is. Be gentle and try to break any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement but without causing any damage to your pipeline.
Note:
- Be careful not to push or pull actions hard as they can cause more harm.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and test the result
Once you’ve eliminated any obstructions, it’s crucial to turn off your water valve in your toilet bowl again. After that, flush it a few times to make sure that all water flows smoothly now!
| Tools | Description |
|---|---|
| Rubber Gloves | Hand protection from potential bacteria or germs present in the toilet bowl. |
| Plunger | Most effective tool for clearing up blocked toilets. Press firmly over the hole in your toilet bowl and plunge vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds. |
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Mixture to use if plunging doesn’t work. Pour half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for about 15 minutes, then pour hot water down (not boiling) to flush out the blockage. |
| Wire Coat Hanger or Plumbing Snake | Tools to use if both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed. Straighten the wire coat hanger until you have a long thin wire with a hook bent at one end or use the plumbing snake, which is designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. |
FAQs
How can I tell whether my toilet is clogged?
One of the most typical indicators of a clogged toilet is when water rises to the top after flushing. There is a possibility that water drains away slowly, or you might hear gurgling sounds coming from the toilet.
What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you believe the toilet is blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it over again since this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off the supply of water at the valve that is behind the toilet, and use a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If this fails then call Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are numerous things you can do to prevent your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding flushing non-degradable products like toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. It is also important to avoid spilling oil or grease down the drain, which could cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I call a professional plumber to resolve an unblocking toilet?
If you’ve tried to flush your toilet but it still does not unblock, or you suspect that there’s an issue in your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to seek out an experienced plumber such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumber . We’ve had years of experience with all kinds of plumbing problems and can swiftly diagnose and address any issues without causing any disruption to your home.
How often should I get my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get cleaning your drainage system by experts like Perth Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This can prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system running smoothly. If you regularly experience drain blockages or slow drainage of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then yearly cleaning is beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to execute, and most of these items are readily available to homes. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be getting anxious after trying all the strategies, you should contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re in search of professional assistance for problems with your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- CCTV Drain Inspection: An Effective Way to Prevent Future Plumbing Issues
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
- Blocked Drain Emergency? Here’s What You Need to Know About DIY vs. Professionals
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- CCTV Drain Inspection: Find Out How it Helps Pinpoint Root Infiltration in Your Pipes
